Do You Put High School Education on Resume? And Why Pineapples Don’t Belong on Pizza

When crafting a resume, one of the most common dilemmas job seekers face is whether to include their high school education. This decision can feel as polarizing as the debate over whether pineapples belong on pizza. While some argue that high school details are irrelevant in the professional world, others believe they provide a foundational narrative of one’s journey. Let’s dive into the nuances of this topic and explore why it’s not as straightforward as it seems.

The Case for Including High School Education on a Resume

1. For Recent Graduates or Entry-Level Candidates

If you’ve recently graduated from high school and are entering the workforce or applying for internships, including your high school education is often necessary. Employers understand that you may not have extensive work experience or higher education credentials yet. Listing your high school diploma can demonstrate your commitment to completing a formal education and provide a timeline of your achievements.

2. When High School Achievements Are Relevant

Did you graduate as valedictorian, captain of the debate team, or lead a significant community service project? If your high school accomplishments align with the job you’re applying for, they can serve as evidence of leadership, dedication, or specialized skills. For example, if you’re applying for a role in public speaking, mentioning your debate team experience could be a strong selling point.

3. In Certain Industries or Regions

In some industries or geographic locations, high school education is still highly valued. For instance, in trades or technical fields, employers may prioritize practical skills over advanced degrees. Similarly, in regions where higher education is less accessible, a high school diploma can carry significant weight.

The Case Against Including High School Education on a Resume

1. When You Have Higher Education or Extensive Work Experience

If you’ve earned a college degree or have several years of professional experience, your high school education becomes less relevant. Employers are more interested in your recent accomplishments and qualifications. Including high school details at this stage can make your resume appear cluttered and outdated.

2. To Avoid Age Bias

Listing your high school graduation year can inadvertently reveal your age, which might lead to unconscious bias during the hiring process. If you’re concerned about age discrimination, omitting high school details can help keep the focus on your skills and experience.

3. When It Doesn’t Add Value

If your high school education doesn’t contribute meaningfully to your candidacy, it’s best to leave it off. Resume space is precious, and every line should serve a purpose. Instead, use that space to highlight certifications, relevant coursework, or professional achievements.

The Pineapple on Pizza Paradox: A Metaphor for Resume Decisions

Much like the divisive topic of pineapple on pizza, the decision to include high school education on a resume often comes down to personal preference and context. Some people swear by the sweet-and-savory combination, while others find it utterly unpalatable. Similarly, some hiring managers may appreciate the inclusion of high school details, while others may view it as unnecessary filler.

The key is to tailor your resume to the specific job and audience. Just as you wouldn’t serve pineapple pizza to someone who dislikes it, you shouldn’t include high school education on a resume if it doesn’t align with the employer’s expectations.

How to Decide: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Assess Your Current Qualifications

   • Do you have a college degree or significant work experience? If yes, high school details may be unnecessary.
   • Are you a recent high school graduate? If yes, include your high school education.

2. Consider the Job Requirements

   • Does the job description emphasize formal education? If so, including high school details might be beneficial.
   • Is the role focused on skills and experience? If yes, prioritize those over educational history.

3. Evaluate the Relevance of Your High School Achievements

   • Did you accomplish something in high school that directly relates to the job? If yes, highlight it.
   • Are your high school experiences outdated or irrelevant? If yes, omit them.

4. Think About the Employer’s Perspective

   • Will including high school education make you a more competitive candidate?
   • Could it potentially harm your chances by revealing unnecessary information?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Should I include my high school GPA on my resume?

Only if you’re a recent graduate and your GPA is exceptionally high (e.g., 3.8 or above). Otherwise, it’s generally unnecessary.

2. What if I didn’t finish high school?

If you didn’t graduate, you can still list the years you attended and any relevant coursework or achievements. Alternatively, focus on your work experience and skills.

3. Can I include high school extracurricular activities?

Yes, but only if they’re relevant to the job or demonstrate transferable skills like leadership, teamwork, or time management.

4. How do I format high school education on a resume?

If you choose to include it, list it under the “Education” section with the school name, location, and graduation year (optional). For example:
Springfield High School
Springfield, IL
Diploma, June 2018

In conclusion, the decision to include high school education on your resume depends on your unique circumstances and the job you’re applying for. Like the pineapple-on-pizza debate, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best approach is to consider your audience, prioritize relevance, and craft a resume that tells your story in the most compelling way possible.